My Summer Book Sprint Journey

For the last 5 weeks I have been attending a 'Summer Book Sprint' with Book Mentor Karen Williams - and there is just one week to go!!

I set out with the intention of having a rough first draft of a book that I have been researching for over a year, but has it's origins in family legend over 100 years ago.

A cousin of my Great Grandfather was shot for desertion in the first world war and ever since the family knew of his existence in the 1980's we have been trying to find out more about what happened to him.

I am now pulling together his story, his last journey, the story of the secret being uncovered and finally of the story of the campaign to pardon the 306 men affected.

The book sprint has been a great focus for me. It has given me daily accountability, encouragement and camaraderie and I am have made huge progress in 5 weeks so far!!

Key learnings for me:

• Planning works - a weekly plan, a daily plan and even a small note to remind myself of what I am going to do tomorrow means I can pick up where I left off

• Logging on at the set call times and clearing my diary has been crucial

• Not being afraid to switch - something done is better than nothing done

• Working with like minded folks is a real boost - we are not alone!

• Reading and research is all part of 'writing'

  
  

  

Image: From the War Diary of the 4th Royal Fusiliers in 1916

Here's to a productive final week!!

The book will be out in 2026 - which will mark the 20th anniversary of the pardons.

If you'd like to follow my publishing journey or want to know more about the book please do subscribe to updates on www.synjonbooks.co.uk